What is forensic handwriting examination?

Forensic Handwriting Examination

• Investigation of disputed/forged signatures;
• Examination of handwritten texts, strikeouts, and fill-ins;
• Examination and visualization of impressed and latent impressions on documents.

You can also come to us for a Quick Scan if you are uncertain whether it is worthwhile to request a comprehensive comparative examination or for conducting counter-expertise.

• Comparative examination of disputed/forged signatures;
• Comparative examination of handwritten texts, strikeouts, and fill-ins;
• Investigation and visualization of impressions pressed into and latent within documents.

Disputed Handwriting

Handwritten letters, notes, fill-ins, signatures, etc., are all traces left by individuals. However, if the producer (writer) of these traces is unknown or disputed, we refer to it as disputed handwriting. The purpose of comparative handwriting analysis is to answer whether disputed handwriting or a disputed signature can be attributed to a particular person.

To answer this question, reference material is needed, consisting of handwriting or signatures. It may also be requested to determine if different disputed handwritings originate from the same writer. In that case, the handwriting samples are compared with each other.

Research conclusion

The core function of forensic handwriting examination is to determine if handwriting can be attributed to a specific writer.

The verification is based on a systematic evaluation of the present handwriting characteristics. The emphasis is on the form and not on the content of what is written. The results of this comparative analysis are tested against pre-established hypotheses. We then assess how likely the findings are under each of these hypotheses and report them to the client.

Additionally, we may sometimes comment on the motor condition of the writer. However, this statement will only relate to the observed writing movement in the form of the handwriting. For example, the motor condition of the writer may include tremors (for instance, due to Parkinson’s disease, substance abuse, or emotional factors). The effects of the tremor may be visible in the handwriting. In such cases, we will mention the presence of tremor but not its cause.

In conclusion, making statements about the mental or physical condition or personality traits of the writer is not within the expertise of forensic handwriting analysis.